Is Super Smash Bros. Ultimate DLC Free? The Ultimate Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The short answer is no, the vast majority of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (SSBU) DLC is not free. While there was a single free DLC character offered as a limited-time bonus, the bulk of the additional fighters, stages, and music require purchase. Let’s dive into the specifics of SSBU’s DLC offerings, costs, and more, so you can make informed decisions about expanding your Smash experience.
Unlocking the Roster: DLC Costs and Options
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate boasts an enormous roster, but even after unlocking all the base game fighters, there’s a whole new world of content to explore through downloadable content (DLC). This content usually includes:
- New Fighters: Each DLC character brings a unique playstyle, moveset, and personality to the game.
- New Stages: Accompanying each fighter is a brand-new stage, often based on their home series.
- New Music: A selection of music tracks from the character’s franchise is added, enriching the game’s already impressive soundtrack.
There are two primary ways to acquire this DLC:
- Individual Character Packs: You can purchase each DLC character individually.
- Fighters Passes: These passes bundle multiple character packs together at a discounted price.
Individual Character Packs vs. Fighters Passes
Each individual character pack typically costs around $5.99. This option is great if you only want a select few fighters. However, if you are looking to get a lot of characters it will be more cost-effective to look into the Fighter Passes.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offered two Fighters Passes:
- Fighters Pass Vol. 1: Included Joker, Hero, Banjo & Kazooie, Terry Bogard, and Byleth.
- Fighters Pass Vol. 2: Included Min Min, Steve & Alex, Sephiroth, Pyra & Mythra, Kazuya, and Sora.
Each Fighters Pass cost around $24.99. This is a significant discount compared to buying each character individually ($5.99 x 5 = $29.95, which is a savings of $4.96).
The Exception: Piranha Plant
There was one free DLC character available for a limited time: Piranha Plant. Players who purchased the game early and registered it with their Nintendo account received a download code for Piranha Plant. However, this offer has now expired, and Piranha Plant must be purchased separately if you missed the initial promotion. Piranha Plant is not included in either Fighters Pass.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About SSBU DLC
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Super Smash Bros. Ultimate DLC:
1. How much does it cost to get all DLC in SSBU?
In total, all 12 DLC characters cost approximately $60 if bought separately. It is less expensive if purchased through the Fighters Passes.
2. Is Smash Bros DLC region free?
No, DLC is not region-free. You must ensure the DLC you purchase is compatible with the region your Super Smash Bros. Ultimate game was released for. You can check your game’s region by looking at the packaging or through the game’s “Software Information” settings.
3. How can I get Smash Ultimate DLC characters for free?
Aside from the limited-time Piranha Plant offer, the only way to unlock Smash Ultimate’s DLC characters is by purchasing them. There are no legitimate methods to acquire the DLC for free.
4. How much is one Smash DLC character?
An individual Smash DLC character typically costs $5.99.
5. Who was the first Smash DLC character?
The first DLC fighter announced for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate was Piranha Plant, although it was a bonus for early adopters of the game. Joker from Persona 5 was the first paid DLC character released.
6. Who was in Fighters Pass Vol. 1?
Fighters Pass Vol. 1 included:
- Joker
- Hero
- Banjo & Kazooie
- Terry Bogard
- Byleth
7. How much does Joker cost in Smash?
Joker can be purchased individually for $5.99. He is also included in Fighters Pass Vol. 1.
8. How many SSBU characters are there without DLC?
The base game of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate includes 76 fighters, counting Pokémon Trainer as one fighter. There are 69 unique fighters, 7 Echo Fighters, and the additional free DLC fighter Piranha Plant.
9. Is the Fighters Pass permanent?
If you purchase a Fighters Pass, the included characters, stages, and music remain accessible to your Nintendo account permanently, as long as you maintain access to your account and the Nintendo eShop services. The Fighters Pass itself is no longer available for purchase.
10. Is Piranha Plant a DLC?
Yes, Piranha Plant is a DLC fighter. It was initially offered as a free bonus for early purchasers of the game, but is now a paid DLC character. Note: Piranha Plant is not included in the Fighters Pass (sold separately).
11. How much does Kazuya cost?
Kazuya Mishima from Tekken is available as part of Challenger Pack 10, which costs $5.99. He is also included in the Fighters Pass Vol. 2, which costs $24.99.
12. What comes with each character pack?
Each Challenger Pack typically includes the fighter, their accompanying stage, and a selection of music tracks from their respective franchise.
13. Where can I purchase SSBU DLC?
SSBU DLC can be purchased through the Nintendo eShop on your Nintendo Switch console.
14. Will there be any more SSBU DLC?
Nintendo has confirmed that there will be no further DLC fighters for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate beyond those already released. The roster is complete.
15. If I only want a few characters, is it better to buy them individually or get a Fighters Pass?
If you only want 3 or less characters, it’s more cost effective to purchase them individually at $5.99 each. If you’re interested in 4 or more characters, the Fighter Passes are the way to go for significant savings.
Beyond the Game: Learning Through Play
While Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is an incredibly fun and engaging game, it can also offer valuable learning opportunities. The game fosters strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and hand-eye coordination. Moreover, exploring the diverse roster exposes players to characters and worlds from various video game franchises, potentially sparking interest in new games and genres. Games Learning Society explores the intersection of gaming and education, showcasing the potential for games to enhance learning and development. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about the benefits of game-based learning.
Final Smash: Your DLC Decision
While Super Smash Bros. Ultimate DLC isn’t free (with the exception of the limited-time Piranha Plant offer), the additional content significantly expands the game’s replayability and variety. Whether you opt for individual character packs or Fighters Passes, carefully consider which characters appeal to you most to make the most of your investment and enhance your Super Smash Bros. Ultimate experience.